Using a zero turn riding lawn mower makes cutting your grass quick and enjoyable, but if you're new to ZTRs, there's a bit of a learning curve at first.

Navigating around trees, shrubs, or other obstacles in your yard will be surprisingly easy. At first, it may be difficult to maneuver your new zero turn lawn mower, but with a little practice, you will be cruising around your property like a pro.

The hardest part of operating a zero turn mower is making tight turns without tearing up your lawn. By following these 3 simple steps, you can learn to make quick work of cutting the grass without gouging or tearing your turf.

Practice LapsBegin by making 2-3 laps around the perimeter of your lawn. Pushing both of the control levers will move your zero turn mower in a straight line.

Pushing one control lever farther forward than the other will cause you to turn in the opposite direction - so pushing the right control lever farther forward than the left will cause you to turn to the left.

Mow in a RowOnce you have the hang of driving in a straight line, and you've mastered the art of making smooth turns on your zero turn mower, go to one end of your yard and cut straight lines across the grass.

You should continue cutting these straight lines back and forth, turning around in the perimeter that you mowed in step one until you've reached the other end of your lawn.

Three-Point TurnAfter finishing a pass, make a slight turn toward the uncut area of grass. Stop and reverse by pulling back on the levers. After completing the turn, pull harder on the lever facing the previously mowed area. Straighten out by pushing forward on both control levers.

The goal is to turn while moving forward or backward rather than spinning in a tight circle. This will keep the tires from tearing up your lawn. Repeat this process again and again until you've finished mowing your entire lawn.

Practice Makes Perfect (Lawns)When mowing with the uncut grass to your right, initiate the turn by making a turn to your right. Do this by pushing harder on the left control lever. While reversing, pull harder on the right control lever.

It may take some practice, but you'll get the hang of it. Once you're comfortable with the process, you'll love the finish it gives your lawn.